Plumbers Volunteer Time, Service For Those in Need

Their efforts were part of a partnership called "Water's Off." It's meant to provide immediate assistance to those who need it, while also promoting water conservation.

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"It just shows their commitment to the community," said Kevin Adams of Community Action Partnership of Ramsey and Washington Counties.

Those taking part offered free plumbing repairs and general inspections to senior, low-income and disabled homeowners meant not only to lower water bills, but to promote a lifestyle of water conservation.

"They (very) much appreciate it," said Tom McCarthy of St. Paul Plumbers Local 34.

"They don't have the money to spend. They don't have the money to take care of these problems to fix their dripping faucets, to fix their running toilets."

It all comes through a collaboration with Community Action Partnership, a group which works to end poverty.

"It makes you feel good that we're able to refer these households to the local plumbers to be able to address these issues for these homeowners," Adams said.

The program started in 1994.

Now, 24 years later, volunteers have been to more than 3,500 homes, given 11,000 hours of their time and donated $1.5 million in services.

"We get thank you notes," McCarthy said. "We get calls from the customers."

McCarthy said it isn't just another day at work. It's using their craft to improve the lives of others.

"They're dedicated to it, they enjoy it, it offers them satisfaction to go out there and give back to the community," he said.